THE MAYOR of Lyme Regis has hit out at plans for the town council to pay rent for land where a new skatepark will be built.

West Dorset District Council's executive committee will discuss the land transfer of part of the Charmouth Road car park in order for the skatepark to be built - after planning approval was granted.

In a report to the executive committee, it is recommended that members should approve a 20-year lease to Lyme Regis Town Council to compensate for the loss of 35 car parking spaces - while the town council should pay an annual rent of £2,000.

Mayor of Lyme Regis Owen Lovell, said: "The council’s understanding was the land at Charmouth Road car park was going to be gifted to Lyme Regis Town Council by West Dorset District Council" he said.

“The town council has worked with West Dorset District Council to come up with the best deal possible for the skatepark.

“The town council still hopes the district council’s executive committee will choose not to approve the proposed rent, but at least subject to the approval of Lyme Regis Town Council, the skatepark will go ahead for the benefit of the town’s young people.”

The executive committee will vote on the land transfer agreement on Tuesday (16) before Lyme Regis Town Council will discuss the outcome at the annual return meeting on Wednesday, June 24.